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Serotonin syndrome — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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HardEmergency MedicineSerotonin syndromeUSMLE Step 3

A 24-year-old woman presents with agitation, diaphoresis, diarrhea, tremor, and hyperreflexia after taking linezolid for cellulitis while on sertraline. Temperature is 38.9 C, heart rate is 126/min, and pupils are dilated. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: D — Serotonin syndrome

Serotonin syndrome presents with autonomic instability, gastrointestinal symptoms, agitation, tremor, clonus, and hyperreflexia after serotonergic drug exposure or interaction.

Reference: Emergency medicine toxicology guidance